When is an AED to be used during a cardiac arrest?

When is an AED to be used during a cardiac arrest?

• A. After another responder arrives
• B. After confirming pulse
• C. As soon as available; follow the AED prompts and continue CPR between shocks
• D. Never use the AED on a suspected diabetic emergency

Answer: (C)

In a cardiac arrest, the priority is to provide immediate defibrillation if needed while keeping blood flowing to the heart and brain. Use the AED as soon as it is available, and follow its prompts exactly. Attach the pads, let the device analyze, and if it advises a shock, deliver it right away. After the shock, resume high‑quality CPR immediately and continue CPR between shocks as the device reanalyzes. This approach is best because defibrillation is most effective when delivered promptly after collapse, and the AED guides you through the correct timing and pad placement. Delaying use to check a pulse or waiting for another responder can waste precious minutes and reduce survival chances. The AED is designed for cardiac arrest with no pulse; if there is a pulse or if the situation is not a cardiac arrest, different actions are appropriate.

In a cardiac arrest, the priority is to provide immediate defibrillation if needed while keeping blood flowing to the heart and brain. Use the AED as soon as it is available, and follow its prompts exactly. Attach the pads, let the device analyze, and if it advises a shock, deliver it right away. After the shock, resume high‑quality CPR immediately and continue CPR between shocks as the device reanalyzes.

This approach is best because defibrillation is most effective when delivered promptly after collapse, and the AED guides you through the correct timing and pad placement. Delaying use to check a pulse or waiting for another responder can waste precious minutes and reduce survival chances. The AED is designed for cardiac arrest with no pulse; if there is a pulse or if the situation is not a cardiac arrest, different actions are appropriate.